4.5 Signposting, referrals and integration

We have already considered referrals for medical assessment in Toolkit 3: Pharmacological interventions. We have also highlighted the importance of keeping local GP practices informed about pharmacy weight management services. In the future, as NHS provision increases, they will be key in referrals to local weight management service providers.

Here we look at other types of referrals and collaboration with other healthcare professionals to build on your pharmacy’s existing network of contacts. 

Keep an eye on what is happening with regard to NHS obesity care pathways alongside the primary care  rollout of tirzepatide. Equitable access may include considering the use of a community-based multidisciplinary team approach, to include social prescribing, community dietetics and other appropriate services, where available.

How well connected are you to dietitians, physiotherapists and other relevant people, and do you know how they fit into weight management pathways?

Local authorities commission adult behavioural weight management services that aim to support people in making long-term lifestyle changes. These form the second tier of the social and healthcare joint effort to help people to have a healthy weight and include food choices, physical activity and behaviour change support.

Access is often through referral by GP practices — do you know whether pharmacies can refer in your area?

Grassroot community bodies as well as commercial organisations are also involved in offering:

• Community-run cooking classes and exercise opportunities
• Green gym activities such as walking groups; Park Run
• Local authority and other gyms, classes and swimming pools
• Local weight loss groups such as Slimming World.

If your pharmacy already has a Healthy Living Pharmacy champion, they will be aware of most, if not all, of these. If not, you may want to consider a member of your team taking on this role of champion to stay on top of new and changing facilities and resources to refer people to.